Aces Fans Ecstatic Over Big Win

ANCHORAGE, Alaska — Alaska Aces fans are amped up after the big win over the Kalamazoo Wings.  Even though the Aces were in Michigan for game 5 of the Kelly Cup Finals, hundreds of hardcore hockey fans came together to root on their hometown team.

It was hard to ignore the cheering coming from inside Rumrunners in downtown Anchorage, which was packed with fans of white and blue who were glued to the TVs in the bar.

"The game's been awesome. It's been really back and forth," said fan Randy Cheadle. "The teams both play hard and the Aces are winning. That's the important part."  Another fan - Joy Gilbert - said she never doubted this day would come.  "I knew we were going to be here. I knew this was going to happen," said Gilbert.

Aside from the traditional gear, and the celebration cake on hand, the selling point for the hardcore fans was their enthusiasm each time the Aces scored.  And when the clock counted down, the win for the Aces was a priceless moment for their supporters back home.

"We are the champions!  I'm so excited," yelled Cheadle.  "Five games is all it took. We are the champions!"

"This is the best night we've had in five years. In five years to come back and win and bring this home to Anchorage this is a fantastic night," said Norm Odsather.

Even though the season is officially over, some Aces fans are already looking forward to the next big win.  "We're going to be right back here celebrating the Kelly Cup again for a second year in a row," said Gilbert.

The Aces are expected to return to Anchorage Sunday, May 22 at 7 p.m.  Some fans are planning to gather at the Ted Stevens International Airport to welcome home the team.